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• Race run on certified course
• Race day registration available

The race was moved to St. Paul in 2008. We have found that the runners preferred this new location. The race is now run around Lake Phalen, just northeast of downtown St. Paul, off I-35E and Maryland Ave/Wheelock Pkwy (see Course Map for directions). This venue was selected for the beautiful trails and the great picnic area at this park. The start and finish line are located in the picnic area on the west side of Lake Phalen. This beautiful new location is sure to amaze you with the scenery in this metropolitan jewel.  I have been told by many people and now I believe, this truly is an oasis in the middle of the city!!

*Late and Race Day Registration: For those of you who are registering for the race at the last minute, we have a few different options:

• Register at the St. Paul Running Room on Friday, April 2nd, 1 - 6 pm
• Register at Phalen Lake in St. Paul on Race Day 7:50 - 8:45 am

Parking

There are many parking lots in the Lake Phalen park system on the west side.  Directions and parking areas are designated on the Directions/Parking link at the top of the page.

Course Information

This is a spectacular course with the 5K completing one lap around Lake Phalen and the 10K completing two laps. Both courses are certified and both will be fast. The great thing about these two courses is that they will be held on the park trails around the lake. Therefore, you will not be crossing any streets or have to deal with any traffic or motorists!!! The trail around the lake is fairly flat with only a few small hills.  There will be mile markers at every mile and water stops on each side of the lake. Please come and try our great course which will surely be a must on your yearly calendar of events!

Background

This exciting spring race is in its 9^th year of kicking off the running season for people in the Metro area. The Running Opener has always been in a central metropolitan location and makes for an opportune start to the 2010 year for runners.

Race Awards

Awards will be given to the top 3 male and female runners in each age category: 19 & under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 & up.  Award ceremonies will immediately follow the race near the start/finish line in the park.  Top runners in 2009:                                                                                                                          

Race Success

This has been a very popular spring race with runners of all age groups. The Running Opener has seen increased event participation despite interesting spring weather and change of location for the 2008 season. Final Stretch is working hard to make this an even better race for 2010!

• 2010 Anticipated Participation Level – 450 Runners

• 2009 Participation Level – 350 Runners  (rain)

• 2008 Participation Level – 450 Runners (change of location)

Race Benefits

• Charities Challenge